Book description
Writing about siblings from the London Review of Books 'My childhood can never let me down as a guide to human complication.'- Andrew O'Hagan 'Most of us who have siblings dream about being an only child,' Colm Tóibín writes in his introduction. 'Part of the joy of being a novelist is to erase all trace of siblinghood and present a character facing destiny without brothers and sisters ... Not having siblings gives them autonomy, and that, in turn, becomes a sort of power.' The Bensons and the Brontës, the Jameses and the Joyces, the sisters Austen and the brothers Mann, are joined here by pieces about Elizabeth and Margaret Windsor, the only children ('little emperors') of China and the Marx Brothers. 'The Big Problem', an essay by Adam Phillips that hasn't been published before, completes the collection.Featuring: John Bayley, Dinah Birch, Terry Castle, Stanley Cavell, Jenny Diski, Anne Enright, Penelope Fitzgerald, Deborah Friedell, Andrew O'Hagan, Adam Phillips, Tony Tanner, Colm Tóibín and Sheng Yun
Athens Fire
🧘♀️☕ Savoring moments of tranquility with a cup of tea and captivating tales! 🍵📖 Navigating through my audiobook library is a joy with this app's intuitive interface and easy controls. It's like having a personal reading companion at my side. 📱📖 ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is fascinating. I can alter the reader's voice to match my mood—what a creative addition!
NoiseCake
ListenBook's dedication to optimizing for iOS 16 ensures a seamless experience on the latest devices. I'm impressed by ListenBook's ability to extract artwork and metadata automatically. Sharing audiobooks with friends through AirDrop is a fun way to spread the joy. Automated metadata extraction is a time-saver. My library is so organized now.
Clang Glyph
ListenBook's support for playlists in CUE format is a detail-oriented touch I truly appreciate. ListenBook's support for CarPlay and Apple Watch has made my listening experience even more seamless. Audiobook enthusiasts, rejoice! This app's design focuses on seamless interaction. Looping playback is an invaluable study tool. It helps me absorb complex information effortlessly. It was fine. The narrator did an adequate job but nothing about the performance particularly stood out to me. Got me through my commute though.
Jungle King
I'm blown away by the range of non-fiction audiobooks available – so much to learn! I'm in awe of this app's ability to make reading so accessible and convenient. ListenBook has become my ultimate audiobook companion. It enhances every listening session. The interface is beautiful and functional. ListenBook is my go-to app for audiobooks. ListenBook’s bookmarking feature is incredibly useful. I never lose my place in a book.
Essex
Adjustable playback speed is a fantastic feature. It allows me to customize my listening experience. CUE playlist support is a fantastic feature that allows me to curate themed listening sessions, creating a dynamic and engaging audiobook experience. Makes listening to audiobooks so easy and enjoyable. Thank you, ListenBook!
Riff Raff
ListenBook's innovation, seamless playback, and versatile features make it a standout app. This app's convenience has turned my daily chores into moments of intellectual discovery – a win-win! This app has made long flights and road trips so much more enjoyable. Simplifying audiobook adventures – this app's ease of use is a delight. Audiobook enjoyment has never been this convenient. This app's sleek design and efficient organization ensure that every story is accessible and enjoyable. 📚👌
Wildcat Talent
I'm grateful for this app, as it allows me to keep up with my reading even while multitasking. Looping playback is an invaluable study tool. It helps me absorb complex information effortlessly. The narration elevated an already good book to greatness! The performer's subtle vocal variations conveyed nuance I might have missed while reading. Their ability to maintain consistent character voices across many hours was impressive. Technical quality was flawless throughout.
Little General
Audiobooks have become my favorite workout companions, making exercise a breeze. ListenBook has become my trusted companion, guiding me through the realms of imagination. The playback speed adjustment is a game-changer for busy individuals. Time saver!
Gingersnap Woman
With ListenBook, I've found a way to make the most of my free time while indulging in my love for audiobooks. 🚗 Long road trips? No problem – this app keeps me entertained mile after mile! 🚙📚 Book groups feature keeps series and related titles together. Neat and tidy! ListenBook’s interface is clean and intuitive. It’s a joy to use. Decent narration, predictable story. The voice actor did a good job, but the plot followed a familiar formula. If you’re looking for something new and groundbreaking, this might not be it.
MeeP
🌟 Elevating everyday moments – this app adds an extra layer of magic to every aspect of my day. 📚✨ The app is so easy to use. I was up and running in minutes. Absolutely loved the narration! The voice actor brought the characters to life with distinct tones and emotions. The production quality was top-notch, with no background noise or distractions. A truly immersive experience!
Blade
ListenBook's versatility and user-friendly interface make it a must-have for audiobook lovers. I'm amazed at how this app has brought back the joy of reading into my daily routine – thank you! ListenBook Pro's noise reduction feature is a game-changer for improving audio quality and clarity. ListenBook is a game-changer for audiobook lovers. The app supports all formats, and the import process is seamless. I love the playback history feature—it’s so easy to revisit my favorite parts. Highly recommend this app!
Jo Jo Spooky
ListenBook has completely changed my audiobook experience – it's like having a personal audio library. ListenBook's seamless audio player has turned my listening sessions into moments of pure delight. This app has enriched my daily routine and added a touch of intellectual stimulation. 🔥 Audiobook enjoyment at the tap of a finger – this app's functionality is a testament to modern convenience. 📱📖
Lil Rebel Ma
An audiobook lover's dream come true. So many options, I'm in heaven! ListenBook's unlimited length of audiobooks with the Pro version is a fantastic value for avid listeners.
Reed Lady
With this app, I've rediscovered the joy of reading through my ears, making every moment more valuable. This app's convenience has made my downtime more rewarding and enriching. 📱 Carrying stories wherever I go – this app's convenience allows me to indulge my love for reading on the move. 📚🛍️ I can finally listen to all my audiobooks seamlessly with ListenBook. The customizable playback controls and chapter navigation make it a breeze.
Stone Boomstick
This app is a gift for anyone with a busy lifestyle – I can enjoy books while doing chores! ListenBook's smooth playback and easy navigation ensure that my audiobook experience is always top-notch. ListenBook's dedication to excellence shines through in its performance and features. I can't get enough of this app's intuitive controls – it's the perfect way to indulge in audiobooks. 🚶♀️🌌 This app's functionality makes every walk an adventure – I'm immersed in stories as I explore the world around me. 🏞️📖
Wooden German
This app has added a touch of magic to my mundane moments – I'm forever grateful. ListenBook Pro's tone adjustment feature is a fascinating way to add a personal touch to my audiobook journey. Chapters make navigation a breeze. I can easily pick up where I left off.
Atlantic Rim
I've found my new favorite way to relax – cuddled up with an audiobook. Say goodbye to cumbersome interfaces – this app's intuitive controls and user-friendly design have elevated my audiobook experience to new heights. 📱🔊 Noise reduction on ListenBook Pro is impressive. It's like getting a clear, immersive listening experience. This app is perfect for anyone who loves audiobooks. The interface is sleek and modern, and the playback controls are super responsive. I also appreciate the cloud integration, which lets me access my books from anywhere. Great work!
Willow Dragon
ListenBook's support for playlists in CUE format is a detail-oriented touch I truly appreciate. ListenBook is a true audio treasure! It turns my own audio files into immersive listening experiences.
Knock Out Star
ListenBook has reignited my love for storytelling and learning, one audio file at a time. I can't get enough of this app's versatile features – from playback speed to bookmarking, it's all there. I can't get enough of this app – it's a true game-changer for book lovers. ListenBook has changed the way I listen to audiobooks. The app is so easy to use. One of the best audiobooks I’ve heard! The story was compelling, and the narrator’s delivery added depth to every scene. I found myself looking for excuses to listen just a little longer. Will definitely revisit this one!
Sweetness
This app has transformed my screen time into valuable learning and entertainment. The app is so versatile. It works with all my audiobook formats. This audiobook was a fantastic listen! The narrator's voice was clear and engaging, making it easy to follow along. The pacing was just right—not too fast, not too slow. Perfect for long commutes or relaxing at home. Highly recommend!
Playing a wide variety of audio formats
Works on all devices with iOS 13 and newer
Huge amount of features for a small price
Frequent updates to add new features and improve existing ones
Advanced playback controls
Live sound processing
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice and noise reduction
Translated into more than 20 languages
If you love listening to fiction audiobooks, ListenBook has features to make the process easier.
Edit book data: title, author, cover
Use equalizer to make the sound comfortable for you
Adjust the playback speed
Enjoy dark and light app themes
Supported formats: MP3, M4B, AWB, FLAC, OGG audio files and many more (must be DRM free)
Auto-Bookmarks make it easy to find your place
AirPlay support allows redirection of audio output.
VoiceOver support
Dark mode for night owls
Convenient bookmarking system helps you mark the most important places.
Unlimited bookmarks for each audiobook
Put your own cover on the wager
Share your audiobook with friends
Lock-screen control
Customise app with extensive options
Sleep timer with shake to reset, set custom notification sounds, and a few unique options
Auto rewind depending on paused time, customize rewind times to your liking
Removing background noise from recordings made in classrooms and meetings
Changing the timbre of the reader's voice for a better listening experience